Jelgava Palace

Jelgava Palace- former residence of Courland and Zemgale dukes, now- the house of Latvia University of Agriculture. Jelgava Palace is the largest Baroque style palace in the Baltic states, the greatest work of famous Russian court architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli and one of the few cultural monuments remained in Jelgava.

The palace has 674 windows, 615 doors, 669 rooms and 25 chimneys on the roof. The palace construction was done in two periods: 1738-1740 un 1762-1772 and it was built to replace the former 14th century Order of Livonia Castle.

The castle has burnt several times with the worst damage suffered during The World War Two, when at the end of the July 1944, the castle was burned down and the Jelgava Academy of Agriculture ceased to exist. In 1956 the renovation of the Jelgava Palace started and gradually Academy of the Agriculture returned to its former location.

Today, Jelgava Palace houses the third largest university of Latvia - LLU and Jelgava city is home for 7000 students.

Since 1968 there is a museum in Jelgava Palace. The exhibition reflects the history of Order of Livonia Castle (13th century), the building process of Jelgava palace and interesting facts about historical research and maintenance of the palace.

Hot Chocolate in Duke's Residence

Jelgava Palace will not only entertain you with stories about dukes of Courland and Semigallia, but will also take you on a special taste adventure - Food of the Gods - have some hot chocolate in the company of court ladies.Already in the 18th century hot chocolate drink was enjoyed in all European royal houses, also in Mītava.

The 21st century recipe of hot chocolate was invented by the Faculty of Food Technology of the Latvian University of Agriculture. Enjoying the chocolate visitors can also learn the secrets of construction of the largest Baltic Baroque palace, find out more about the daily life of dukes, as well as listen to breath-taking adventures of students.Taste the sweet offer of Jelgava Palace together with family, friends or colleagues!Price - EUR 5.00 EUR per person. (Offer available to groups of at least 20 persons.)To taste our special chocolate please call +371 63005617, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Love letters form Dorothea

New offer at the Castle - Dorothea's Love Letter Workshop. It is an educational programme for all ages, where Princess Dorothea of Courland and Zemgale will help guests create the atmosphere of the 19th century, explore the secrets of calligraphy and prepare a surprise for their loved ones by sending a letter written in Jelgava Palace in candlelight and sealed with the special seal lacquer. You can also write a letter to Dorothea, who will respond personally and give advice to questions concerning love.Price - 5.00 EUR per person. (Offer available to groups of at least 15 persons.)Please apply for the programme at least three days in advance calling +371 63005617 or sending an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Working hours

* To arrange a visit to Jelgava Palace outside the working hours please contact Ginta Linīte, museum manager at +371 63005617 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. at least a week in advance.

Prices

May 2 - August 31:Adults - 2.00 EURPupils, students - 1.00 EUR

September 1 - April 30:Admission by donation

What to see more

Information!

Till year 2020 Jelgava Palace is on reconstruction (project Jelgava Palace Energy Performance Ensuring). Several parts and rooms of Palace periodically may not be available for visitors. At the moments it is not possible to observe the entire facade of the Palace.